Refined Palmolein Oil
Refined palm olein is high in saturated fat (mainly palmitic acid). EFSA's CONTAM Panel found that 3-MCPD, 2-MCPD, and glycidyl esters can form during high-temperature refining of palm oils and are carcinogenic/genotoxic process contaminants — EU has set maximum levels (Reg EU 2020/1322 and 2023/915).
What it is
Palm olein — the liquid fraction of refined palm oil obtained by fractionation; commonly used as a cooking/frying oil.
Edible cooking and frying oil; baking shortening base.
Why it's flagged
- High in saturated fat (palmitic acid) linked to elevated LDL cholesterol
- May contain 3-MCPD/glycidyl ester process contaminants from high-temperature refining (EU regulated)
What regulators actually say
"EFSA's CONTAM Panel concluded that glycidyl fatty acid esters are genotoxic and carcinogenic and that 3-MCPD and its esters can damage the kidneys and male fertility."
"Maximum levels for glycidyl fatty acid esters and for 3-MCPD in vegetable oils and fats are set in Commission Regulation (EU) 2023/915."
Regulatory status
United States — FDA
Permitted as edible oil; subject to general food safety rules
European Union — EFSA
Authorized food; max levels set for 3-MCPD esters and glycidyl esters in palm oils
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